[NAMM] Martin & Co D-45 Authentic 1942

They are replicated based on a 1942 D-45 (Serial # 81578), the centerpiece of the Martin Museum Collection. According to Tim Teel, Martin’s Director of Instrument Design, pre-war D-45s had some interesting differences from later D-45 reissues. The original Adirondack red spruce tops were thinner (.105" versus .120") with rear-shifted scalloped X-bracing.

The thickness of the back was slightly thinner, too, which also added to the lightness and airy resonance of the guitar. They have reproduced these specs in this Authentic edition along with an ebony, non-adjustable neck rod (circa 1930s), solid pearl inlays and, of course, premium bookmatched Brazilian rosewood back, sides, headplate, as well as Brazilian inlays in the top, rosette, side and back, and more.

One of the most important authentic features of the 1942 D-45 is the hot hide glue construction. Other features include beveled faux tortoise pickguard (under lacquer), ivoroid binding on body, soundhole rosette, fingerboard, headstock, heel cap and end piece. The old style gold tuners are featured, too, as are the traditional ebony bridge with fossilized ivory bridge pins, long saddle and nut, ebony fingerboard with 45-style hexagon fingerboard inlays. A thin nitrocellulose polished lacquer finish completes this reproduction.